Weight Loss Cardio Sculpt

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Either two 34-minute cardio/ sculpting interval routines or one long 54-minute workout that puts both routines together. There’s also an 8-minute “ab challenge.” Violet Zaki instructs.

Advanced beginning through intermediate exercisers. If you’re high intermediate, this may be too easy for you. You will need 3 to 5 pound dumbbells (the moves are too fast for anything heavier) and a mat.

Using elements of traditional exercise moves, kickboxing and Yoga, Violet Zaki has put together a tough-but-not-too-tough set of routines. The cardio/ strength training interval approach makes for a highly effective use of your time. The DVD is divided into different segments — a 5-minute warm-up, two 20-minute workouts, and a wonderfully indulgent 9-minute cool down and stretch. All the segments can be done together, or you can program just one routine, plus warm-up and cool down for a 34-minute semi-quick workout. The intensity here is not too high — advanced exercisers won’t be challenged — but it’s not low, either, although you may be fooled by a couple of the low-impact cardio intervals. With each 20-minute workout segment, you spend about half doing standing exercises and half on the mat (and yes, you will be doing cardio intervals on the floor and they will raise your heart as much, or maybe more, than most of the standing cardio). The sculpting exercises generally use more than one muscle group, all the better to keep your heart rate up (more efficient too). The second routine is harder than the first (it’s got the one truly kickass cardio segment of the DVD), but both routines have a modifier who shows you easier versions of the moves. The modified moves make this workout appropriate for those who are at a advanced beginning fitness level; intermediates will want to do the full versions. You use your core muscles throughout the workout, but if you want to zero in on your abs, the 8-minute bonus “ab challenge” is a great add-on. One of the best aspects of this DVD is Zaki’s personable way of teaching. She’s not a screaming cheerleader and she’s not a barking phys. ed. coach. She’s pleasant and professional and makes you want to work harder without resorting to shrillness. Home exercisers who are turned off by the overly-peppy approach of other instructors will welcome Zaki’s straightforward personality.